Pecan Pie Cookies
These Pecan Pie Cookies are not just another dessert; they bring the delightful flavors of pecan pie into a bite-sized treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies combine a buttery base with a rich, gooey topping that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just indulging at home, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious cookies.
- Delicious Flavor – The combination of butter, sugar, and pecans creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – These cookies are ideal for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in with family and friends.
- Versatile Treat – Enjoy them as is or experiment by adding chocolate chips or spices for a personal twist.
- Great for Sharing – With 24 servings in one batch, they’re perfect for sharing at potlucks or gifting during the festive season.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Pecan Pie Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet – Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
- Mixing bowls – Essential for combining ingredients without spills and mess.
- Electric mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and effortless.
Ingredients
These Pecan Pie Cookies require the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Pecan Pie Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; the dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in each ball.
Step 5: Make the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until sticky and well combined.
Step 6: Fill Indentations
Spoon a small amount of pecan filling into each indentation in the cookie dough balls until filled to the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Pecan Pie Cookies!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or as a sweet treat after dinner, these cookies will impress everyone.
Pair with Coffee
- Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the pecan filling complement the bitterness of the coffee perfectly.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Top a warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. The cold ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm, gooey filling.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Arrange Pecan Pie Cookies on a festive dessert platter alongside other treats. This makes for an attractive and tasty display that guests will love.
Gift Them
- Pack Pecan Pie Cookies in decorative boxes as gifts. They make thoughtful presents for friends and family during the holiday season.
Enjoy with Tea
- Pair these cookies with your favorite herbal tea. The soothing flavors of tea enhance the sweet taste of the cookies.
How to Perfect Pecan Pie Cookies
Making perfect Pecan Pie Cookies is easy if you follow some simple tips. These will ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.
- Use room temperature butter: This helps create a smooth and creamy mixture, resulting in light and fluffy cookies.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents tough cookies and keeps them tender.
- Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft, chill it for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
- Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. Remove them once they are lightly golden around the edges for the best texture.
- Store properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh longer.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile of your Pecan Pie Cookies.
Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Cookies
Pecan Pie Cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their sweet goodness. Consider serving these alongside your cookies for an extra special treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that melts beautifully over warm cookies.
- Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, this adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the cookie’s flavor.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing side that balances the sweetness of the cookies with tangy fruits.
- Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle over cookies for chocolate lovers looking for an indulgent twist.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cookie flavors.
- Hot Chocolate – Perfect for cozy nights, this drink complements the nutty flavors of pecans beautifully.
- Nutty Granola – Sprinkle granola on top of ice cream served with cookies for added crunch and flavor.
- Caramel Sauce – A drizzle adds richness and enhances the overall dessert experience when paired with warm cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pecan Pie Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the balance. Always measure with precision for best results.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Some recipes benefit from chilling the dough. If you feel your dough is too soft, chill it for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure yours is at the correct temperature.
- Not Allowing Cookies to Cool: Letting them cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Be patient before transferring them to a rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Pecan Pie Cookies will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pecan Pie Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pecan Pie Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10-15 seconds per cookie.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Pecan Pie Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
You can certainly substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer!
How do I know when my Pecan Pie Cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges; they should still be soft in the center when you take them out.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
What drinks pair well with Pecan Pie Cookies?
Coffee and tea are great choices. A glass of milk also complements the sweetness perfectly!
How long do Pecan Pie Cookies last?
When stored properly, they can last up to five days at room temperature and longer if refrigerated or frozen.
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Pie Cookies are not only easy to make but also offer a delightful twist on classic flavors. Their gooey filling and buttery base make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with chocolate chips or different nuts for a unique touch!
Pecan Pie Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Pecan Pie Cookies, a bite-sized treat that captures the essence of classic pecan pie. These cookies feature a buttery base topped with a rich, gooey pecan filling, making them an irresistible choice for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. With their simple preparation and mouthwatering taste, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you enjoy them as is or add your personal twist with chocolate chips or spices, these cookies will impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
- Add flour and salt to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls, placing them on the baking sheet with space in between. Create indents in each ball using your thumb.
- In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until sticky. Fill each cookie indent with this mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
